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Narrative Portraiture: Painting in Acrylic

Join artist Micah Ganske as he draws on the basics of mixing, glazing and layering to create a narrative portrait.

Gain expert tips on portraiture with Micah Ganske whether you are new to acrylics or a veteran painter looking to create a unique portrait. You'll start with the basics of choosing a photo, transferring the image to canvas and building a portrait with glazes. Ganske explains the many layers of acrylic in an intimate environment as he demonstrates how to build a painting from the underpainting to the finishing touches. With a crisp, over-the-shoulder view of Ganske's work, you'll gain thorough insight into how an accomplished painter moves and constructs an image.

Born in Honolulu, Hawaii, Ganske was always more interested in pursuing painting than catching waves. Since receiving his MFA from the Yale School of Art, his work has been featured in several high-profile exhibitions, including Miami’s Art Basel. Ganske’s work explores social, environmental and technological themes intended to ignite the imagination; “What is art for the viewer but a catalyst for inspiration?” asks the artist. “I want to make work which inspires and engages the viewer in what I truly believe is important and what drives me.”

Ratings & reviews

Class rating

(14 reviews)

Instructive Masterclass

by paul20man8033580 on May 25, 2015

The one problem I have had is rushing instead of reasoning things out. This has completely changed my attitude and with it my confidence... Brilliantly instructive!

The one problem I have had is rushing instead of reasoning things out. This has completely changed my attitude and with it my confidence... Brilliantly instructive!

Very impressed with this class!

by Nova91 on April 6, 2015

I learned so much from this class, it's very informative, and very easy to follow step by step tutorial. His an excellent teacher, i am glad i took this class.

I learned so much from this class, it's very informative, and very easy to follow step by step tutorial. His an excellent teacher, i am glad i took this class.

Love His Demeanor!

by dawnbarne7512280 on April 1, 2015

Calm, cool, collected and well dressed... What more could you want? Oh yeah ... And the info is great too!

Calm, cool, collected and well dressed... What more could you want? Oh yeah ... And the info is great too!

Very Impressed With This Class And The Format

by cowart1496302170 on February 28, 2015

I was reluctant to try this method of instruction but I was amazed at how much I learned. The instructor was informative and clear in his instructions. He struck a happy medium and I believe he's an excellent teacher for both new painters and those with more experience. I'd not hesitate to take another of his classes!

I was reluctant to try this method of instruction but I was amazed at how much I learned. The instructor was informative and clear in his instructions. He struck a happy medium and I believe he's an excellent teacher for both new painters and those with more experience. I'd not hesitate to take another of his classes!

Better Than My In-person Course

by Shannon Lebryk on February 19, 2015

I've learned more from watching Micah than I have at the college course I've been taking. He's given several great tips and not been super pretentious like some painters tend to be towards beginners. Thank you for this class!

I've learned more from watching Micah than I have at the college course I've been taking. He's given several great tips and not been super pretentious like some painters tend to be towards beginners. Thank you for this class!